Rugby legend Dan Carter includes two Six Nations stadiums in his top three favourites
10/07/2024 07:33 AM
Dan Carter, one of rugby’s all-time legends, has shared his top three favourite stadiums from across the globe.
With a career filled with unforgettable moments, both for club and country, the former All Black fly-half boasts an impressive list of accolades, including three World Rugby Player of the Year awards.
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Here are the three stadiums that stood out most to Carter during his illustrious playing days:
#3. Twickenham Stadium, London
Twickenham, the iconic home of English rugby, holds a special place in Carter's heart. His standout memory? The 2015 Rugby World Cup final, when New Zealand triumphed over Australia. Carter’s 40-metre drop goal during the match became a pivotal moment, helping stem a Wallabies comeback.
"All such special memories but hard to go past the RWC final drop goal," Carter tweeted in response to a Rugby World Cup post asking fans for their favourite memory of him. "Twickenham, the home of rugby, was certainly bouncing that night," he added.
#2. Eden Park, Auckland
Carter described Eden Park, New Zealand's largest stadium, as a place that “comes alive” under the lights. Located near Auckland's bustling central district and overlooked by Mount Eden, the 50,000-capacity venue is steeped in history.
"Under lights, especially, the place comes alive," said Carter, who enjoyed many memorable moments at Eden Park throughout his All Blacks career.
#1. Principality Stadium, Cardiff
Topping Carter’s list is Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, formerly known as the Millennium Stadium. Situated in the heart of the Welsh capital, this 74,500-capacity arena is renowned for its electric atmosphere, especially when the retractable roof is closed.
"I'm often asked which is my favourite stadium to play in, and I always say the Millennium," Carter said. "It's an amazing place with an awesome atmosphere. The people of Cardiff and Wales are like the Kiwis back home. They are so passionate about their rugby."
For Carter, the retractable roof also provided a tactical advantage. "As a kicker, it's quite handy having a roof on it. That takes away the wind and rain, which you can have a bit of in Cardiff. That's an added bonus," he remarked.
Carter’s fond memories of these three iconic stadiums underline his enduring connection to some of rugby's most legendary venues.
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
In his remarkable lineup, Owens features three Welsh luminaries – Alun Wyn Jones, Shane Williams, and Gethin Jenkins. Additionally, he acknowledges the contributions of Lee Byrne, Dwayne Peel, and Leigh Halfpenny to the sport.
Notably, a striking facet of Owens’ chosen players is their collective leadership qualities, with the majority of the selected individuals having served as captains for their respective nations.
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it's nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He's such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It's a toss of a coin for me… and it's come down in Folau's favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He's so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he's a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you'll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he's a fantastic man off the field as well. O'Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He's another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma'a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we've been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it's pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I've been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I'm pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”
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